Lokes Parenting 101

How Can A Parent Not Give Their All To Their Children?

2010-07-07T23:27:00.002+08:00

Before I had kids, I used to imagine that I would be the type of parent who can be firm and yet generous in my fantasized interactions with my children. I figured that since my father brought the 5 of us up with only the bare necessities in life, I will be able to not indulge in the whims of my own children when I do have them in the future.

In reality, I fall really short of my father's disciplined method of bringing up kids. I do not know if I am subconsciously compensating for my lack of exposure to the material world, in my childhood; I have been trying to analyse my inability to draw a line when it comes to giving my children everything that might help them maximise their adult potential, but so far, I still have not figure out why I simply cannot say No to my kids or to any marketing representative of kids-related businesses.

Every month, I make resolutions to not add any extra expenses when it comes to the children. Yet somehow, it happens. I find myself either signing up the girls for some interesting lessons or I end up buying some 'educational' plaything or shoes and clothing for my fast growing dolls. I find it so difficult to hold back and wonder sometimes if I might some sort of undiagnosed obsessive compulsion.

At this rate I'm going, I wonder how on earth we're going to afford to bring up all 3 of our babies with the very best in life, till they reach adulthood. Very scary thought!

I think that both Gerry and myself will have to work really hard for a very long time before we can retire. That seems like the most likely scenario judging from my inability to exercise self-control. =P

Sisters Hearts & Kisses

2010-06-21T14:04:00.002+08:00

Sarah and Sonia

2010-06-21T12:32:00.002+08:00

Time goes by impossibly fast when one is not keeping track. My 2 baby girls have grown into little girls now. Both are extremely charismatic individuals and show budding promise in getting their way in life when they grow up. #1 is pretty in an exquisite porcelain way - her mannerisms are very much dainty and lady-like, whilst #2 is pretty in a burst-of-sunshine way - her mannerisms are cheerful, loud and gregarious. Both contrasting and yet they play and get along very well together.

I thank God for blessing me with these 2 angels everyday ; I kick myself hard every time I act out my impatience, anger or dissatisfaction on them through shouting, snapping or even spanking, sometimes. My prayers are always for me to be more patient, loving and kind.

It is an extremely difficult task to be a better mother, especially when modern life expects so much from a woman nowadays. Not easy when one has to juggle work, household responsibilities, parental duties and now pregnancy to boot! I am thankful for Gerry who tries his best to help me whenever he is not out of town and I am thankful for my helper Genevieve who has become my right-hand woman in the running of my household. I wonder how households without helpers fare - I wonder how harried and stretched out the mummies of those homes are. And thinking about that, never fails to make me doubly thankful and grateful for my husband and helper. Still, I cannot help but wish for more time in a day for me to catch up on my life and to rest, sometimes. Oh, if life could go by much less hectic and stress-free!

I realize the extent the change that I have gone through ever since I embark on this journey of becoming a mother - I have actually evolved into a person much more resilient in life and only because if I were any less resilient, my children, my husband, my home might fall apart and get hurt. It is amazing how having a family and children can change a person. I am still a little awed at how much love I find myself having for them, no matter how little I thought I had for them at the points when I get severely tested by marital discord or when the children get sassy. Motherhood has completely transformed me.

Of Marriages and Motherhood

2010-06-16T00:08:00.002+08:00

It has been a long, long time since I last logged into this blog. Last I checked, it has been almost 1 and a half years since I posted an entry.

A lot has happened since that entry. My marriage with G saw us go through abandonment, infidelity, estrangement, professional counselling, church counselling and finally now, healing. Individually, I went through a period of self doubt, acting out my hurt and fears, started a business with friends and now, a little enlightenment. I hope my children come out okay from all the ruckus.

Seperately, we have also moved to our very first home. I mean, the previous one we stayed in was a rented one and we had bought 2 others which we never stepped foot into (sold just before TOP). This one is special, it is wholly ours. An ancient 32 year-old duplex apartment that we had done extensive work on, with the needs of our little family in mind. =)

My babies have now also grown into lovely and chatty little girls. Sarah's all 'why, mummy?' and Sonia's starting to word her sentences - lots of chatter, but still working on her articulation.

Gerry and I have also recently grown a lot closer (more than ever actually!). Working extremely hard on making sure we have a happy marriage. And I have found myself pregnant recently, with our next bundle of joy. I am almost 10 weeks pregnant today and I cannot wait to make our home a more wonderful haven for the family. =)

Sonia Rae's Growing Fast

2008-12-09T23:51:00.004+08:00

Darling Rae, you've grown so fast in these couple of months. In terms of psycho-motor skills you're alot faster than your che che at the same age. Mummy thinks that you must be trying hard to keep up with che che no?

You are an extremely cheerful baby. You're constantly smiling and laughing out loud. It's hard not to be happy around you. You're also an avid foodie. It's mummy's joy to watch you eat. You really love your food.

I'm sorry that I'm stopping your milk supply so suddenly. Mummy has been getting too many mastitis episodes with you (4 times). And currently I'm suffering from an ulcer on my right boob. It must be due to the way you are suckling. Your doctor gave mummy the green light to stop breastfeeding you as you are already an extremely healthy girl. =)

I love you loads baby girl.

Birth - 3.65kg

1 month - 5.25kg

2 months - 6.5kg

3 months - 7.7kg

4 months - 8.6kg

5 months - 9.1kg

6 months - 9.5kg

7 months - 9.8kg

8 months - 10kg

9 months - 10.2kg

Sonia's Learning Fast!

2008-10-07T23:51:00.002+08:00

Over the weekend, our baby Rae had somehow managed to crawl expertly and pull herself up to a standing position when seated near the sofa or coffee table.

It is amazing how fast she is hitting all these milestones. I do not recall Sarah reaching these milestones as early as her. Guess that's the second kid for you. Haha...

In a matter of 2 days, Sonia has also mastered cruising. She expertly cruises along our sofa set and deftly switches to our ottoman by letting go for a few seconds and turning her body towards the ottoman. Really amazing!

Sonia Rae's 7 months Old!

2008-09-29T16:40:00.002+08:00

Sonia turns 7 months old today. She's started short-distance crawling 2 days ago; I can't wait for her to explore around the house!

She's still as bubbly and smiley as ever. Really hoping that she will stay this way. Here's her weight chart below-

Birth - 3.65 kg

1 month - 5.25 kg

2 months - 6.5 kg

3 months - 7.7 kg

4 months - 8.6 kg

5 months - 9.1 kg

6 months - 9.5 kg

7 months - 9.8 kg

Her weight gain has slowed down quite a bit but I'm happy nonetheless that she still looks pretty chubby and cheery. Everyone that sees her including strangers on the street would ask to carry her and play with her. Sonia's really our little bundle of joy! =) Love her to bits.

Sarah Mae @ Two and a Half Years Old

2008-08-01T12:36:00.002+08:00

Sarah Mae is growing up so rapidly these couple of months. She's speaking very well- very much like an adult. All in, she is a pretty well behaved child. Recently, she's starting to test our patience in terms of obeying instructions. I wonder if this is prevalent in all children her age.

I notice that she will listen to me if I explain out my rationale to her when I need her to do certain things. Caning does not work. I have experienced that first hand on Monday. We had some 'power struggle' incident relating to her eating her lunch properly, and it resulted in me caning her for not listening and behaving. Nothing good came out of it. She ended up feeling her first pangs of 'hating' me (she wanted to exchange her mummy with someone else). And I ended up hurting because it always suck having to hit one's child.

Well, I'm not using the cane ever again. Naughty corner is fine for now.

Meantime, I have to pray for patience. Plenty of patience.

Sonia's Growth Chart at 5 Months

2008-08-01T12:19:00.002+08:00

Sonia has been my chunky joy these five months. Minus the usual sleepless nights and the frettings from falling sick to the flubug, most parents have to go through, Sonia is really a bundle of chubby love. =)

Her growth chart is as follows:

Birth - 3.65kg
1 month - 5.25kg
2 months - 6.50kg
3 months - 7.7kg
4 months - 8.6kg
5 months - 9.1kg

She has also started on solids since her hitting 4 months and a week old. Her diet now consists of banana/ papaya with avocados in the mornings and sweet potato with brocolli in the evenings. Her main course is still milk from yours truly. She's growing well. I hope that she'ld be as cheery as she is as she grows. We love every inch of her. =)

Sonia's 4 Months Old!

2008-06-28T23:04:00.002+08:00

Ok, I've been procrastinating with the pictures - but I cannot wait to let you all know just how heavy my baby is. Just jumped onto my weighing scale and found that my little girl has steadily piled on the pounds. She's 8.6kg this month! She's my cheerful, chubby baby and I cannot wait to post pictures of her here. Stay tuned. =)

Great Grandma's Passing

2008-06-03T15:07:00.002+08:00

The 31st of May 2008 marked a very sad day for our family. My maternal grandmother has finally been called back unto God's embrace.

Her passing caught me a little off guard as I had just saw her the day before and she could even smile at Sarah in recognition. She was alot weaker when I visited her two days earlier at the hospital.

The past weekend had been a flurry of activities to send her off on her final journey. We cremated her yesterday. The heartbreaking part was the painful sadness I see in my grandfather's face. He shed tears quietly throughout the 3 days as we all rallied around him. My grandparents were married for 64 years. It must really be heartwrenching to lose one's partner of so many years.

I will be certain to honour my grandma's memories through the stories that I will tell my girls. They need to know how my Mama used to care for me when I was a child. I hope that they will learn to love their own grandparents as much as I love mine, in turn.

Mama, may you carry on praying and keeping watch over us, from heaven. I will miss you very much and will keep you always in my prayers. I love you mama.

Sonia Rae's 3 months old!

2008-06-03T14:49:00.000+08:00

Sonia's Growth Rate:

Birth - 3.65kg

1 month - 5.25kg

2 months - 6.50kg

3 months - 7.7kg

Sonia is asserting more of her characteristics recently. She is very much into thumb sucking and needs either to breastfeed or suck her thumb to sleep. Very different from her che che in that sense. We have tried giving her a pacifier but to not much avail. She spits that out every time we give her. She enjoys 'talking' to us too. She coos and babbles incessantly whenever she sees a face (doesn't matter who). She smiles very easily. Overall, she's a very good baby- she doesn't cry very much and she has already been sleeping through the night since 2 weeks ago. I think G and I must be very blessed to have children as wonderful and as beautiful as Sarah and Sonia. Thank you God. =)

Falling In Love

2008-05-22T22:28:00.001+08:00

Once upon a time, my world was one filled with frivolous pursuits- of course, I hadn't thought about it that way back then. Life was perfect I thought, hence I and G gladly decided that we should have a baby to top it all off. Well, we didn't have to try very long before Sarah came into our lives. And our 'perfect life' no longer became recognisable to us. Chaos and unpredictability became the norm- yet somehow amidst our messy, busy, sleepless days, we found happiness and fulfilment and love. Now we learn that perfection doesn't mean having everything- rather, perfection means sticking our heads and our hearts out in loving our kids and really being happy despite the fact that we are all pretty imperfect at the end of it all.

Sonia's Turning 2 Months!

2008-04-28T12:37:00.002+08:00

It just hit me as to how much bigger Sonia is when compared to Sarah when Sarah was just a little baby. We weighed Sonia on Saturday and the scale read 6.4kg! In retrospect, Sarah was just 6.6kg at 3 months and we were already calling her michelin baby then. Hmmm... I wonder what we should call little Sonia then? Any suggestions?

Sonia's Growth Rate:

Birth - 3.65kg
1 month - 5.25kg
2 months - 6.50kg

Me & My MP3!

2008-04-05T23:59:00.000+08:00

Hmmmm... I wonder what this is...?
Oooo... music!
Lets groove!
Now, lets try it with just one earphone...

Verdict: Daddy- I want a MP3 player!

Our Day Out At Vivocity!

2008-04-05T23:52:00.000+08:00

Sarah Mae: I had so much fun at vivocity today! Daddy brought me for a horse ride and I had such a wonderful time splashing away with Aunty Sophia at the water area too! Dunno whether Sonia had any fun since I only saw her sleeping away... hmmmm... I wonder....

Sonia Rae: ZZZzzzzzzzzzzzz..... =)

I'm 1 Month Old!

2008-04-05T23:42:00.000+08:00

Sonia Rae turned 1 month old on the 29th of March 2008. The party was a riot - lots of Uncles and Aunties came to see her. Thank you everyone for your Ang Pows, Cards and Presents. We had to load up 2 cars to get all the gifts home! What a lucky baby!=)

As of 28th of March 2008, Sonia weighed in at an impressive 5.25kg- jie jie Sarah paled in comparison in terms of weight at 1 month! She has been getting a little more interested in the things around her. She's been able to spend minutes observing her surroundings and she's starting to be able to see me. Doesn't sound like much but I do long for those moments when she coos at me in recognition. Apart from these, Sonia's still not doing anything much besides sleeping, crying, eating, peeing and pooping... Can't wait for her to become more responsive!=)

G loves his girls but he's expressed his thought that little Sonia seems to be alot more of a cry baby when compared to Sarah Mae when Sarah was an infant. Well, Hun- lets try not to compare and love our girls for their differences instead. It's going to be tough- but I know we can do it!=)

Aunty Sophia & Uncle Sam

2008-03-26T15:00:00.002+08:00

These pictures mean so much to me as I love both Sophia and Samuel very much. It's really heartwarming for me to see them loving my girls as much as they do. Can't wait for them to give me nieces and nephews to love in return. =)

Sonia's Birth

2008-03-26T14:14:00.002+08:00

I never thought I could love anyone,
More than I love G.
But number 1 came along,
And I was enamoured, completely.
So when I was pregnant with you my dear,
I worry about not loving you enough.
Now everything screams really clear,
To decide who I love best - it's really tough!

It's a wonderful, fantastic feeling to know just how much love I actually possess after I became a mother. Now, as I embark on my journey as a mother of 2- that feeling awes me and scares me at the same time.

My contractions started at twenty minutes intervals at 630pm on the 28th of February. I did not think anything of them at first as I had been having false contractions for at least 3 weeks before that day. By 11pm they started coming in at 10-minute intervals which had me asking G to call for the OB in the event that I could possibly be in labour. True enough, my OB Dr Paul Tseng asked that we get to the hospital immediately.

We reached TMC at 12 midnight sharp and I was still able to joke around with G that we might be having a leap year baby. TMC was giving away gifts for the first 3 leaplings and we arrived just as the first leapling was delivered (by my OB nonetheless!). G jibed me by saying that he should have made me do some jumping jacks if he had known we were having our baby on the 29th of February. We could have made it for the cash incentive! =)

I was checked and told that I was already 3 to 4cm dilated- hence, labour had indeed started. However as we still had some time, the doctor said that we could rest in our room instead while waiting for the active labour phase. By 4am, the contractions started getting intense at 5 minute intervals- I had to time my breathing with G's snores (he was fast asleep). I was not aware that active labour had started and did not alert the nurses. When one came to check on me she immediately told G that I had to be in the labour ward as the baby was coming. I was at 6cm dilation by then. The nurse then told me that if I were to have an epidural, it better be administered at that moment otherwise it might be too late to do so. I thought hard about it- I could tolerate the contractions but the fear of ripping my arse made me request for the epidural.
Once the epidural was administered, my contractions slowed down. We were told that if they hadn't, Sonia would have been the 3rd leap year baby to be born that day.

Dr Tseng decided then to burst my waterbag as there was no longer a point to keep it intact (contractions are better managed with an intact waterbag). The epidural was wonderful (my first experience with it during Sarah's birth was traumatic) and I could relax all the way till the nurse told me I was fully dilated. Sonia was born after only 3 or so pushes (at 10am) and Dr Tseng did a fantastic job ensuring that I did not tear too badly. I only required 2 stitches thereafter and could walk and sit around without feeling any pain in my bottom (very, very different story with Sarah's birth).

The afterpains were killer pains though. I need to put this down to remind myself what I'ld be getting into should I ever get pregnant again. Note to self: VERY, VERY PAINFUL- WORSE THAN LABOUR PAINS.

I do not think I'ld want another child any time soon. Two is perfect for now.=)

Mummy's Got 2 Princesses Now...

2008-03-14T17:25:00.002+08:00

So much has gone on in this past year. To start with, we moved homes at the end of March of 07 and I got pregnant 3rd time round sometime around May (2 months later). Life following that was a hectic blur of ferrying Sarah to classes as well as zoo, sea-side and playground outings with fellow mummies living around our estate.

This pregnancy was alot harder than when I had Sarah. I suppose the stress that both G and I had been facing prior to my getting pregnant must have somehow contributed to it as well. I will probably go into detail about it when I create another blog for Sonia Rae (hopefully soon).

We had also hired an Indonesian domestic help in August 07 to help me with the chores so I could spend more time with Sarah Mae and help her settle into a routine before the baby came along.

Looking back, I must say that Sarah has gone through a period of rapid change. She behaves very much like a little adult now. I'm a little sad that she's somehow grown up so much in this couple of weeks (eversince we brought Sonia home) and I feel a tinge of regret that she had done so without me as I had been really busy with Sonia. I guess, it's a feeling that all mothers of 2 or more kids will have to grudgingly accept once we relinquish our complete devotion (obsession rather) of #1.

I hope to and know that I must somehow strike a balance with my 2 little girls and husband from now on and pray that He will grant me the wisdom, patience and courage to do so. The road ahead is going to be REALLY long and bumpy- I really hope that I'ld be equip with the right vehicle and enough petrol to ride it out (God willing). =)

My Baby Sister- Sonia Rae Loke @ 1 week

2008-03-14T17:21:00.003+08:00

Take a look at my baby sister Sonia Rae Loke Jia En. She was born on the 29th of February 2008 weighing a hefty 3.65kg. Daddy and Mummy kept calling her a leapling. Hmmm... I wonder what that is....=\

I'm A CMC Fan!

2007-07-21T18:38:00.000+08:00

Sarah's daddy's little girl. She's a Chin Mei Chin convert once she tasted the scrumptious little cupcakes. Just like daddy. =)

Peek-A-Boo!

2007-07-21T18:30:00.000+08:00

18 Months Old!

2007-07-21T18:28:00.000+08:00

I'm 18 months old! Dad and Mum says that I'm a real little charmer. Do you think so too?

Happy 1 Year Anniversary!

2007-07-04T15:19:00.000+08:00

Wow, time sure flies. I haven't been blogging for almost 3 months now. Amazing... A summary of my thoughts-

The month of May marked my fabulous 1 year of blogging! So much has happened within this short span of time and I am immensely grateful to have started this journal. Without this outlet for my verbal diarrhoea, I would have forgotten the many funny things that my baby girl had done. Most of all, whenever I'm feeling nostalgic, I have this blog to go down memory lane with- Sarah Mae has really grown so much!

Being a mummy has got to be the best move I have ever made. It has taught me so many things about what really is important in life. Life used to be pretty aimless when you compare those carefree days with mummyhood. Every second now seems to have become extremely precious- apart from the undisturb sleep hours that I miss, I also have learnt to cherish moments spent with my little girl. She really brings me so much joy. I cannot get enough of her!

Sarah's so grown up in many ways. Her comprehension skills are astounding. She's a little social butterfly and is really a lovely, happy child. For the past month or so, she has been crying and waking up in pain whenever she takes extended naps or when she goes to bed at night. Her molars are coming up and it is indeed a very trying time for both Gerry and me. It hurts us that she is in so much pain but it also annoys us that she keeps us awake at night (I know, we're horrible parents). I just look forward to the day when teething pains are over. I miss my easy to manage, lovely and happy baby. I really got the better end of the bargain with Sarah. She's my blessing from Him. =) Thank You God.

Sarah is 17 months old already. Life just fly by us when we're not looking. I really hope that I remember to keep all these memories in mind when she brings home her first boyfriend in the not too distant future. In our hearts, she'll always be our little baby.

Love you gazillions, Sarah.

Exhausted Girls!

2007-04-20T10:31:00.000+08:00

Daddy managed to capture this funny shot of both Sarah and me looking so exhausted. I was completely worn out unpacking our stuff at our new home and Sarah was really tired out from her repeated high fevers and all. Check out her little fever patch we stuck on her forehead. So cute. =)

My Day Out At The Zoo

2007-04-20T10:27:00.000+08:00

We went to the zoo a couple of weeks ago and these are some pictures of little Sarah having fun. You can see her God Pa in the background. He really loves her silly. Sarah's a really lucky baby. =)

I'm 15 months old!

2007-04-16T23:18:00.000+08:00

I'll be turning 15 months old tomorrow! Time sure flies. These couple of months are sure hectic. Mama and Yeye are away visiting kor kor Sean in Oxford and Mummy and Daddy are so busy moving into our new home. At first it was pretty tough settling into my new environment as everything just seems so strange. But I'm having a ball of a time now that I've made friends with the babies in the neighbourhood- boy, everyone just made me feel so welcome here. I even have my own swimming clique now!

I've been walking around since last week. Nothing beats Daddy and Mummy's encouraging smile whenever they see me tottering around. I am trying to master running next. =)

Daddy has been really ill since last week and has also given me his Germs. I've been having high fever over the weekend and now I'm just coughing myself silly. Mummy brought me to Doctor Lim and he says that I've contracted Upper Respiratory Infection. Poor mummy, she's really praying hard not to fall victim to our germs as she has to look after both Daddy and me.

Mama and Yeye, I cannot wait for you guys to come home soon. Mummy says I'm such a big girl now. Miss you loads.

Turning 14 months old

2007-04-16T23:08:00.000+08:00

Baby girl turned 14 months whilst her favourite mama and yeye are away. She misses them quite a bit (so does mummy and daddy). This has been her nightly ritual eversince they left for Oxford. Come back soon Mama and Yeye! Big kisses from me!

Little Princess

2007-04-16T23:05:00.000+08:00

Me & My Best Pal

2007-04-16T23:03:00.000+08:00

My 2nd Chinese New Year!

2007-02-26T15:56:00.000+08:00

Sarah in her cheong sam finery. See her practice her Gong Xi Gong Xi moves and gentle xiao jie smile. Ang Pows, here I come... =)

Am I Drinking Vitagen?

2007-02-26T15:02:00.000+08:00

I must be lucky, I think. Mummy offered me some Vitagen the other night when I was down with what the adults say, the Flu. It tasted a little funny though, but I slurped it all up anyway. Hmmmm... I can't help but wonder about something daddy said to mummy- something about spiking and medicine. I got awfully sleepy after that and mummy patted me to sleep.

My 13mth old birthday week also marks the SAD day that mummy stopped giving me her boobies. I really do miss them but mummy kept screaming whenever I clamped my newly grown pearlies down on them. I guess I won't be seeing them for a while. Bubbye friends...

I'm 13 Months Old!

2007-02-26T15:00:00.000+08:00

Check out my 4 chompers! Finally!!!!!

I Love Playgrounds!

2007-02-26T14:57:00.000+08:00

Daddy and Mummy brought me to the playground outside MacDonald's @ East Coast Park. I had a ball of a time and really want to go back there soon. Daddy, ok?

Jan 2006 Birthday Bash! (Continued)

2007-02-26T14:54:00.000+08:00

Here's some more pictures of me enjoying my cupcake as well as my dance and rap moves. Check it out- I'm a groovy baby!

Jan 2006 Babies Birthday Bash!

2007-02-26T14:48:00.000+08:00

Mummy's forum friends organised a really fun-filled birthday bash for me and my friends. We all had a wonderful time! I got to play and crawl around with fellow January 2006 babies and we also got to eat delicious chocolate cupcakes! Yummy! We even had a gift exchange thingie and I got me a new friend, Elmo, courtesy of Aunty Anita and my friend Tabby! Yaaayyyy- thank you Aunty Anita!

Let Me Show You The Art Of Falling Asleep...

2007-02-26T14:43:00.000+08:00

Cakes Galore! Yum Yum!

2007-02-26T14:41:00.001+08:00

Check Out My Stash! I'm A Bookworm!

2007-02-26T14:41:00.000+08:00

Michaelangelo's Angel...

2007-02-26T14:39:00.000+08:00

I'm Having A Splishy & Splashy Great Time At Vivocity!

2007-02-26T14:37:00.000+08:00

Pole and Plant Dancing!

2007-02-26T14:36:00.000+08:00

My First Taste Of Honeydew Juice!

2007-02-26T14:33:00.000+08:00

Sluuurrrrppppp... yummy!

Being Sarah's Mummy

2007-02-10T21:59:00.000+08:00

It wasn't so long ago that I used to think that becoming a mother had to be the easiest transition I ever had to make in my life. It was afterall supposed to come instinctively. Looking back now, I am amused at how naive and idealistic I was.

Motherhood has to be the hardest mission in any woman's life. It is the beginning of a new journey- one that puts you at the helm of another person's life. Being a parent means shaping, moulding and instilling discipline, sense of morality and values in your child so that he or she can grow up to be a wonderful and caring person, as well as a useful member of society. I am still coming to terms with the size of this responsibility. It is very, very overwhelming and might I add, scary.

My opinion of how I want to live my life has altered drastically especially when I realised that every action, every decision I choose to make will in some way or another influence my child. My life is no longer my own. It will always include Sarah till the day I die. Putting it that way makes most things clearer to me and I am no longer bothered by the trivial matters that use to bog me down. Family and relations are far more important than my obsession with myself. It is a hard pill to swallow but I have made my choice and I should just do the best that I can bringing up my child.

I am worried about how Sarah will turn out in the future; I am anal about her diet and daily activities. These are aspects I need to change. I have to learn how to slow down and enjoy my journey as a mother to my baby. Motherhood is afterall about the journey AS WELL AS the destination. I suppose if I keep my mind on the destination and with alot of prayers, everything will fall into place. I just need to have faith. =)

My Girl...

2007-02-10T20:44:00.000+08:00

I haven't really thought about,
What you mean to me.
At first I had many doubts,
Of my capability.
You were just a tiny person,
So helpless and fragile.
Yet now you're the very reason,
Behind my every smile.
I'm amazed at all you'd taught me,
When I was sure that I know best.
You've proved that life with you is truly,
Above the paltry rest.

Turning 1!

2007-02-10T20:30:00.000+08:00

Sarah's finally one! Okay, maybe almost 13 months- what can I say except that time really flies! I have finally uploaded pictures of her 1st birthday party. It was supposed to be a fun-filled outdoorsy event but it ended up raining cats and dogs. Thankfully we had wonderful, understanding guests who braved the rain and were willing to squish together in our miserably small squash court. The party turned out rather well and little Sarah has all you Uncles and Aunties to thank for her one year supply of free clothing (4 swim suits), more toys, books and growing education fund.

I'm Thinking... Thinking Real Hard....

2007-01-08T12:45:00.000+08:00

Che Che's Galore!

2007-01-08T12:43:00.000+08:00

Latest Haircut...

2007-01-08T12:39:00.000+08:00

Daddy and Mummy thought that 6 months is enough time for a baby to get over a haircut. They subjected me to a scarier version- they WERE the HAIRDRESSERS. Aaaaahhhhh......

I Love To Steer!

2007-01-08T12:37:00.000+08:00

All I want for my birthday is a car or a boat Daddy. Get the hint?

Little Shannon's 1st Birthday Party!

2007-01-08T12:34:00.000+08:00

Sarah's Buddy has turned 1! Start of many more birthday bashes to come. =)

Sarah On A Tray!

2007-01-08T12:29:00.000+08:00

I'm Long Past 11 Months Old!

2007-01-08T11:58:00.000+08:00

Alright - Mummy has been lazy... Sarah's almost a year old and I'm loading up her 11 months old update only now. My bad... =)

At her last weighing in, Sarah was a hefty 9.5kg. I hope she will keep at this weight thereabouts but chances are she has lost some weight. The fussy little princess is back again- feeding time has become torturous once more.

Sarah is an extremely lively and energetic little girl that daddy has taken to calling her HIS little energizer bunny. Haha... She's pretty cheerful and happy most of the time and it is really a joy caring for her except for those moments when she wear our patience thin with her fussiness when it comes to eating as well as when our energy levels are completely worn low chasing after her.

She enjoys stacking her blocks and reading her books. She loves her Kor Kors and Jie Jies... basically she loves kids running around her. She can stare at pictures of kids for long periods of time and will attempt to 'feed' them whenever I'm feeding her. So funny...

December had been really busy as Aunty Sophia had returned home for the holidays and had spent alot of time with Sarah. Silly us had forgot to take pictures of the two of them together. Will be sure to do so when you come visit us again in June Sophie. =)

We also celebrated Great Grandma's 80th birthday on the 29th. Sarah was served piping hot on a tray to her by Uncle Sam. Hee...

Tokyo!

2006-12-26T19:24:00.000+08:00

Finally, mummy found the time to help me blog our Tokyo trip. I could tell the trip was an immensely fun one for my parents from the way they kept reminiscing about it even until today. Poor me, Yeye and Mama had to content ourselves with the everyday man type of holiday whilst daddy and mummy were having a whale of their time going cruise ship dinners, go-karting and dress up parties. I shouldn't complain too much anyways - they brought me to Disney Sea. =)

Counting Down To X'Mas With Daddy!

2006-11-27T23:37:00.000+08:00

Daddy Please Don't Pack Me Away (I'll Be Real Good, Promise)!

2006-11-22T17:44:00.000+08:00

I'm Super Duper Happy!

2006-11-22T17:43:00.000+08:00

I'm 10 Months Old!

2006-11-22T17:21:00.000+08:00

This month, I'm licensed to tear through Grandpa and Grandma's 1600 sqft apartment in 10 seconds flat. Everyone, eat my dust!

I currently weigh 8.85kg much to mummy's delight and my daily repetoire includes:
- climbing stairs
- strategising my cruising route from bedroom to balcony
- kissing Obie our pet dog
- waving bye bye to everyone
- 'talking' to everyone
- clapping my hands
- feeding mummy and daddy my biscuits
- putting my toys in mummy's shopping bags or the waste paper basket
- stacking my toys (includes ALL toys not just blocks)
- understanding most of what mummy and daddy are asking me to do (better don't speak ill of me)
- throwing my stuff bears down the bed (I have strong arms- aspiring baseball player?)

Mummy's getting my stuff all packed up for our Japan trip in December. She bought me plenty to keep warm in and it burnt a big hole in Daddy's pockets. Poor mummy, I hear Daddy blasting her ears off these couple of nights. Daddy, please be kind to mummy. She's just overly excited about MY first REAL trip (Jarkata didn't really count) ;)

Ovarian Ectopic Pregnancy

2006-11-01T11:44:00.000+08:00

I hesitate to enter this account into Sarah's Blog. However, I know that she will come to know of her demised little didi or mei mei eventually.

Funny how one will never really know of medical jargons until some medical tragedy befall them.

Last Friday the 27th of October 2006, started like how any other Friday does- we were looking forward to another weekend albeit G coming down with a fever. I busied myself with the usual taking care of Sarah and G (he was on MC). Around 6pm, I started getting really severe abdominal cramps, but thought nothing of it as I assumed that it was the usual pre-menstrual symptom. It got really unbearable and I laid in bed hoping that it will pass. Unfortunately, the pain intensified and I had no choice but to bother G to take me to a nearby clinic.

I did not really know how I managed to make it down 3 flights of stairs (I stay at a walk-up apartment) as I could not even stand without feeling like I was tearing apart in the middle, but somehow I did. At the GP's even after telling the doctor that the pains were coming from my uterus, he insisted that I was probably suffering from UTI or some other intestinal/ gastric problems. I was made to take some test to ascertain that. The test results came out clear and the doctor finally agreed to conduct a VE to see if there was anything wrong with my uterus. He concluded that I was indeed having some problems with my right ovary. Wanting to be certain, I asked to take a pregnancy test to rule out any pregnancy complication. The pregnancy test came out positive and I was advised to go to Thomsom Medical Centre immediately to consult my gynae and get an ultrasound done. I was given a jab to ease the cramps before I left the clinic, but it was rather pointless as the pain persisted.

G and I left the clinic for home as Sarah was with us then and we needed to send her home for dinner. We were both excited about the pregnancy news and yet also worried as I was in so much pain. We joked around in a bid to allay our unspoken fear as to the pregnancy.

Upon reaching TMC, we were both expecting the Gynae to be there already (the nurse was supposed to page for him). Instead, we were ushered into the A & E area and told that the Gynae won't be coming. The nurse asked us to see their in-house GP instead. I was like what the f***?! We just came from a GP for Christ's Sake! Weak from the pain, I did not kick up a fuss. I told myself that as long as someone can stop the pain, I didn't care who saw to me. G was quite upset as our GP had called the TMC nurse to refer us in and yet we were subjected to this.

A young, houseman-looking GP came in and started to prod my abdomen. He kept asking me if it hurts. I rolled my eyes and felt really upset that I have to go through the whole examination process again. After prodding around, the GP declared that he does not know what the matter could be and said that we should call for the Gynae. I almost screamed at him as I had expected that to start with. The nurse finally at this point, started paging for my Gynae. G and I were both super upset by then.

The Gynae finally arrived half an hour later. I was asked for my last known menstrual cycle and I told him that it was just the beginning of the month. He kept asking me if I was certain as if that was the case, the test kit showing that I was pregnant, could not have been too accurate. He suggested that I take a bloodtest to confirm the pregnancy as it would have been a more accurate test. He also conducted an ultrasound scan. My uterus and fallopian tubes were found to be clear (where's the baby?), but a further scan of my right ovary showed a cyst-like object right smack in the middle of it. The Gynae told me to stay overnight as I needed to be kept under observation while they run tests to find out what exactly is causing the pain. They had many theories as to what the cyst-like thing could be. One theory was that it could be an ectopic pregnancy but he cannot be certain as that would make it an extremely rare case (as oppose to tubal ectopic pregnancy). Upon hearing that the majority of the test will be conducted the next day, G suggested that we return home for the night and go back to the hospital the next day. I was nodding my head in agreement too. The gynae reluctantly agreed and gave me another jab to ease the cramps and told me to wait for an hour or so before leaving. We will also get to know the blood test results as to whether I was genuinely pregnant or not. The doctor left thereafter.

G ran to grab some munchies at Delifrance as we were both famished. Just as he stepped back into the room, I tried to sit up. That was when the cyst-like thing burst. The room swirled around me and I felt as if I was floating. I could hear G asking me if I was alright before he started to yell for the nurses when I did not respond. It was quite strange because I actually felt high. My eyes were rolling upwards and I could not really stay coherent. Someone asked me if I felt cold, but I was not really cold- it felt like I was covered head to toe in some sort of peppermint lotion. Much to my hubby's amusement (on hindsight), I shouted that I felt pepperminty.

The nurses and Blur GP started running into the room. I could feel them pricking my veins. I heard someone saying that my veins had collapsed so they could not hook me up to the drip. Another shouted that my blood pressure was slipping very fast. Someone else strapped an oxygen mask on me. But try as I might, I could not breathe the sweet air in. An intense pain had constricted my ribcage area by then, and I could only manage shallow gasps of air. Amidst the chaos and panic, I was wheeled into another room in preparation for the emergency surgery. Thankfully, one of the nurses had the experience to tell that I was haemorraging. She took over the helm of the entire room of medical staff (including blur GP) until my Gynae returned. I remember how this sweet angel (Sister Han) shouted at the blur GP when he poked at my veins futilely for the third time and took over the duty of inserting the needle for the drip for me. I felt a gamut of emotions throughout the whole process. I kept searching for G to tell him that I love him and that I needed for him to be strong. But I understand that the medical staff had sent him outside the room. Even though the pain of the injections and needles were really overwhelming, I could only panic at my inability to breathe. I thought I was going to die. I prayed and God was merciful.

It is ironic that despite the danger of the situation, the medical industry had to cover their backsides and make sure that the patient (in this case, me), declare them not responsible should anything untoward happen. They shoved at me some form to sign just before they wheel me into the operating theatre. The funny part was when my gynae told them that the surgery they made me sign for (laparoscopy) cannot be carried out because they had no time for that- they needed to do another type of surgery (laparotomy). You guess right, I was made to sign another form just before they operated on me. On hindsight, I really wonder what the nurses and doctors were thinking - would anyone NOT SIGN the form when they are faced with the prospect of dying? Basically, they could give me any forms ie. to sign away my organs etc, and I would have signed it. Interesting no?

Anyway, after the surgery and all, during their visits, the nurses and gynae kept stressing to me just how lucky I was to be alive. Apparently, I had lost alot of blood and had almost went into shock. If G and I had gone home without waiting for the blood results, I may not be here today. For that I am immensely thankful to the medical staff. Alive as I was, I couldn't help but wonder what exactly happened. The gynae had left us with hopes that our baby was still alive and that he will ascertain the cause of my bleeding and inform us duly.

Two days ago, our rose-tinted glasses were harshly taken away. The results of my post-operation blood test showed that I had lost our baby. The cyst was highly likely an Ovarian Ectopic Pregnancy. The chances of any woman getting it is 1 in 60000 or something. We couldn't have been 'luckier' in that sense. Striking ToTo would have been easier.

After much research on the internet, I am comforted that unlike Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy, Ovarian Ectopic Pregnancy tend to occur in fertile women and that my fertility should not be compromise because of it. I will definitely get my gynae to affirm that fact and hopefully get some answers next Monday. Stay Tuned.

The Tooth Fairy That Was Late...

2006-10-27T13:23:00.000+08:00

Sarah's Tooth Fairy FINALLY paid her a visit. I discovered her new-found bite the painful way- yep, during a breastfeeding session last evening. She had been gumming things and drooling since she was 4 months old so the discovery of the new tooth was some sort of an anti-climatic affair as we had been anticipating it's appearance for the longest time.

Both G and I still cannot get a clear view of it as our precious will not open her mouth for us to see. From what I can feel with my finger, I suspect it's the lower left front tooth. Hah, FINALLY!

A Silver Lining

2006-10-19T12:51:00.000+08:00

I brought Sarah to see Doctor Lim on Tuesday, the 17th (yes, she's 9 months old already!) She had broken out in measle-like rashes the day before and got me feeling super stressed and paranoid. Well, the visit proved to be the assurance that I desperately needed after her bout of illness. The Doctor said that the rashes aka false measles, were a good sign as it meant that the viral fever is completely over. I could finally rest easy after 4 long days of torture. =P The bad news was that my poor princess had lost weight from the ordeal. She now weighs 8.25kg from her previous 8.4kg. =( I think, this is a sign of things to come judging from the way she's been picking and choosing her food. Sarah's going on a diet and she's only a baby. =P

Viral Fever

2006-10-13T16:16:00.000+08:00

Sarah's been hit with viral fever yesterday. One moment she was happily playing and the next her body practically went up in flames... it's that scary...

Last night I had to cuddle and nurse her whilst she slept (the whole night). Her temperature climbed till 39 degrees and we had to sponge her. She hated it and screamed down the house. To make matters worse, she's lost her appetite and refuses to take her medicine as well. This makes me one extremely frazzled mummy. What am I suppose to do? =
Looks like the only option open to me now is to just pray and hang in there as long as I can. What drama- her first fever ever and she had to have one of the more erratic and exhausting one... =(

Our Little Crawler

2006-10-10T23:22:00.001+08:00

It's official! Sarah Mae has finally learnt how to crawl. She started crawling FORWARD on the 5th of October, last Thursday. Ironically, we're all a little upset with her latest achievement because she's starting to keep us on our toes all the time now. =)

Let's see, as of today, her abilities include -

1) Crawling
2) Using her 'pincers'
3) Calling Ah Pa and Ah Ma with a Tamil accent(I think she might be Indian in a previous life) =)
4) Walking with support (since 2 months ago)
5) Cruising
6) Annoying the hell outta her cousin Sean (grabbing or trying to grab his toys)
7) Wave bye bye
8) Kissing her 'ah pa' and 'ah ma' (only when she feels like it)

I believe the list will just keep growing at a rapid pace now. Our baby has suddenly 'grown up'. I kinda miss my baby.

My Darling Sarah

2006-10-02T12:55:00.000+08:00

You drive me till I'm fuming mad,
When you refuse to eat.
Still, you look so very glad,
Your smiles so very sweet.

And when you decide to stay awake,
In the middle of the night.
It's really hard for me to take,
It feels like there's no end in sight.

Hardly a moment goes by,
When I wish for some restful sleep.
I get so tired that I could cry-
So frustrated that I could weep.

Yet looking at how fast you grow;
So many changes each passing day.
I wish time could go slow,
I've got so much more to say.

I've learnt a kind of love,
That overwhelms my very being.
A gift from up above,
You encompass everything.

Got Milk?

2006-10-01T23:23:00.000+08:00

The Professional

2006-10-01T23:14:00.000+08:00

Yep, that's right - I'm a professional kai kai expert! Mummy thinks I look and behave like Obie our pet Shih Tzu whenever we bring him out. He'ld hang out of the window with his tongue hanging out. Well mommy, I don't!

Go Away!!!!

2006-10-01T23:07:00.000+08:00

Can't you see I'm eating?! It's rude to stare!

My Best(est) Friend In The Whole Wide World!

2006-10-01T23:03:00.000+08:00

Kor Kor Sean is my favourite person in the whole wide world. He races to meet me every morning with the biggest bear hug ever, and he loves to play with me. I love my Kor Kor Sean.

Meet My Boyfriend Noddy!

2006-10-01T22:56:00.000+08:00

Like all couples, Noddy and I have our moments when we find each other annoying. I really am irritated with him. Grrrrr...

Sarah Mae & Friends!

2006-09-25T17:52:00.000+08:00

We went to the Botanical Gardens last Friday and had a blast with all the other mummies and babies.

I'm 8 Months Old!!

2006-09-23T15:10:00.000+08:00

Okay, so maybe I'm 8 months and 6 days old, but who cares?!

Daddy, PLEEEEEASE buy this tricycle for me. I heard you telling mummy that we can't get it because there's not enough space for 'my junk'. It's hurtful. =(

Mon Cherie!

2006-09-12T10:24:00.000+08:00

It's been a while since my last blog. The last few weeks have been pretty hectic. Sarah Mae has been quite a handful now that she discovered the joys of going out. She can be the most well behaved baby on the planet when we go out. In fact, she'ld charm every person she meets with her winsome smiles and cheeky grins. Alas, she's quite different altogether when she's at home. She can be horribly cranky and whiny when she's alone- with me especially. It can be quite testing. I so need a rest!

I've been experimenting alot with her meals and have learnt that my baby loves chinese cuisine more than the western ones. She loves my beef porridge recipe especially. She can finish up a full bowl of that porridge. I tried making her pasta the other day and she absolutely hates it. Hmmmm... I think she has daddy's predesposition when it comes to taste.

I'm A Big Girl Now

2006-08-28T11:44:00.000+08:00

I'm 7 Months Old!

2006-08-28T11:27:00.000+08:00

Ok, this is really LONG in coming. My apologies.

Sarah turned 7 months on the 17th (approximately 1 and a half weeks back). She's 8.4kg this month. That's a paltry 100 grams more from last month. I suppose it could be because she was rather sick some weeks back. Oh well, my goal this month is to pump her up to make up for the shortfall last month. I like my baby chubby and all. =)

Sarah just learnt how to get into a standing position from a sitting one (with the help of things around her). She still does not know how to crawl forward - she's always doing the reverse leopard crawl. I suspect she can scoot around too, but I haven't seen it firsthand yet (I'll leave her in one spot, but she'll 'appear' at another spot some distance away, in a sitting position still).

My baby still doesn't have any teeth. Apart from the waking up at night and constant gumming of everything, she still has no signs of teeth neither. I count my blessings as that simply means more days of breastfeeding without any apprehension of getting bitten by her. =)

Mother & Child

2006-08-15T12:38:00.000+08:00

I simply can't get enough of:

The wonder of your little smile,
Your tiny fists and toes.
The softness of your jet black hair,
Your tiny, button nose.
The sound of your squeals and laugh,
Your excited flaps and kicks.
The way you drool the whole day through,
Your gummy grins and licks.

Love you, Princess. =)

My Parents Are Cruel

2006-08-12T11:18:00.000+08:00

Sarah went for her first haircut yesterday.It turned out to be quite a disaster. She did not really kick up a fuss at the salon, but she should have. Well, take a look at the pictures above and then those below and you'll get my drift. I think she'ld look back on these when she's old enough, and she'ld probably wonder why we did this to her. We're sorry baby.

Teething?

2006-08-12T11:04:00.000+08:00

We're back from an extremely exhausting trip. It was a long awaited break - but ironically it was probably one of the busiest time I ever had since I had Sarah. Both Gerry and her were sick throughout. I was kept busy with Her Royal Crankiness and had to wash up her everflowing supply of dirty laundry on top of the usual feeding, cleaning and caring for her.

She vomitted like thrice during the trip and we're talking about major vomitting (where liquids spew out from both the nose and mouth type). All due to forcing her to take her medicine. Things improved when I smartened up and started spiking her meals.

Anywayz, I think there's another reason behind her recent grouchy demeanour. Does the pictures tell u anything? She'll practically gum everything she can get her mouth on (oh yes, even dirty table corners).

Sick Babies

2006-08-03T10:38:00.000+08:00

Sarah's awfully sick with a REALLY bad case of cold. Today's the third day already and she doesn't look anywhere near recovering. My heart really aches each time she cries out in pain due to her sore throat, or whenever she tries to take that really laboured breath through her nose. She struggles when it comes to taking her medication and vomits right after. I think my poor baby is looking quite run down. She does not eat her meals, rarely drinks her milk and vomits. Surefire way of losing weight. =( To make matters a little more tricky, my other baby (Gerry)is sick too. Keeping my fingers crossed that I won't be next.

The nightmare begins at night. The first night, I practically had to stay awake the entire night. She keeps fussing because of her blocked nose and will wake up every 15 minutes, unless I pat her back to sleep. Not an easy task considering the Other Baby breaking into fits of cough throughout the night.

She started wailing around 3am and wouldn't stop till I rocked her back to sleep (I had to walk around the room at the same time). And I could not even sit down till 6am. *faint*

I don't know how I'm managing - but it's really miraculous that I haven't lost my temper with her when I had to repeat it the second night.

I guess one of the most amazing thing about motherhood is your sudden newfound burst of patience and willpower. I had neither when I was a swinging single. What can I say, it's a miracle.

Well, I'm really hoping that she'll get better REALLY soon. We're flying off to Jakarta tomorrow till next Wednesday. Hoping that she'll enjoy her first trip overseas.

Sarah's Newest Collage

2006-07-31T23:03:00.000+08:00

ET is coming!

2006-07-31T18:13:00.000+08:00

The New Majestic Hotel

2006-07-31T00:44:00.000+08:00

Ooooh - just came home from a really nice dinner at the New Majestic Hotel. Mummy added a little shark's fin broth into my mashed pumpkin dish. Really yummy... *slurp*

Here's me lounging on one of the snazzy, stylo milo chairs in the lobby. Cool huh?

Dinner @ Big Fish

2006-07-31T00:34:00.000+08:00

We had dinner at mummy's all time favourite restaurant on Saturday. Uncle Edwin and Aunty Hsin Ee met up with us there too. Mummy allowed me a taste of her tomato soup. It was really yummy, but she didn't want to share with me more (greedy mummy).

I had a ball of a time being passed around (again). Everyone's always so friendly to me and I really like the friendliest uncle of them all - Uncle Mido. He kept me entertained with the funny faces and he even allowed me to play with a teaspoon. Oh, I really like this uncle - think we'll go back again to see him. Please daddy?

Huh?!

2006-07-31T00:32:00.000+08:00

I have REALLY yummy arms. Wanna bite?

Baby & Me!

2006-07-31T00:30:00.000+08:00

My Little Girl

2006-07-30T16:16:00.000+08:00

Sarah's growing so fast nowadays. She's practically showing off her newfound skills with every passing day. She can scoot around already, but 99% of the time, backwards =); She will stretch out her hands to be carried WHEN she wants to be carried; Importantly, she knows who her mummy is =) (I get all fuzzy inside whenever I think of her touching my face, each time I ask her who her mummy is). Where's my little baby?

On another note, Gerry has just learnt how to blog in here as well. So, you'll probably see more pictures of Sarah in here as he spams my blog for her. =)

I'm Flying!

2006-07-28T13:01:00.000+08:00

Munching on Biscuits...

2006-07-28T12:54:00.000+08:00

I'm Up For Hire!

2006-07-28T12:52:00.000+08:00

Give me a smile!

2006-07-24T20:53:00.000+08:00

Yum Yum!

2006-07-24T20:42:00.000+08:00

I'm eating my utensils!

Kong Kong & Po Po

2006-07-24T11:49:00.000+08:00

This is such an unflattering shot of me (hullo daddy, please practice ok?), but kong kong and po po do look so sweet together. =)

3 Men & A Little Baby

2006-07-24T11:41:00.000+08:00

I hung out with Daddy, God-Pa and Uncle Nigel last Saturday afternoon. They were chatting over coffee and food at TCC whilst waiting for mummy to finish her beauty treatment. *BIG SIGH* Adults are SOOooooo boring - enough with the 'I want a new car', 'I want to lose weight' and 'I want to party' talk already... C'mon, pay attention to Me, Me, Me! *grin*

Hullo World!

2006-07-24T11:39:00.000+08:00

I'm Auditioning For Grease III

2006-07-24T11:36:00.000+08:00

Do I look the part?

I'm 6 Months Old! (The Many Faces Of Sarah Mae)

2006-07-18T17:14:00.000+08:00

I love you my pretty princess,
You're 6 months old today.
You're a really precious bundle -
A happy sun-shiny ray.
You simply love to smile,
And beckon with your laugh.
You're our wonderful precious child,
Your antics we can't get enough.
At times it can be trying,
But we know you're worth our while.
Just like a marathoner -
We're counting down every mile.

Sarah's 8.2kg! I'm so happy that she's put on quite a bit from last month. Many people have commented that she looks a little run down. Guess what? She's just a little taller that's why. =)

She won't need to go back for monthly jabs till she's 13 months old. Whew, that'll be quite a relief for her. =) She's a brave little girl (that she is). She doesn't flinch when the doctor jabs her and haven't really cried because of the needle so far. Mummy got lots to learn from her. =P

My baby girl has also started to interact with the people around her. She'll holler to get the attention of whoever's closest to her at any time. And she'll reward whoever that responds to her yelling, with a great, big, gummy smile. So funny. She can also sit unaided for quite a while (sometimes half an hour, even). And she loves to watch her kor kor Sean play.

Time really flies by.

X-Rated

2006-07-18T17:06:00.000+08:00

This picture brings a smile to my face. I think it'll make you guys smile too. She's really quite a cutie. =)

I Drive Them Crazy!

2006-07-14T15:51:00.000+08:00

Sarah's been waking up pretty often during the night these past two weeks or more. Enough already! Her waking up times are like clockwork - 2, 4, 6 am, and that's enough to make me grateful. On bad days, it'll be around 12:20 (fuss till) to 2am, 3:40 (fuss till) to 5am and 6:50 (fuss till) to 8am. I'm so wanting sleep! To make matters worse I've trouble falling asleep, so each night will see me spending up to an hour trying to get to sleep before having to wake up when she screams blue murder. *sigh* It's a tough life. If anyone actually thinks I can actually catch Zzzs during the day (since I'm a SAHM), let me laugh in your face - SHE DOESN'T SLEEP during the day. haha...

Gerry has threatened to put her up for adoption if she carries on her routine.

So Sarah, please smarten up and go back to sleeping through the night. We love you very much and will hate to see you go. =)

Baby Entertainment System

2006-07-07T16:45:00.000+08:00

We bought Sarah Mae a toy on Wednesday. Yikes, baby toys don't come cheap... The Exersaucer cost $199 and that's on a 20% discount! Geeze! I guess the people in the baby business sector are doing pretty well making money off parents who are driven mad enough to splurge on their little darlings. The main reason why we bought her the toy is cos we're desperately in need of something to distract her so that she won't keep demanding for our attention ALL the time. =P

Anyways, I also bought her another 'educational toy' (in the guise of, but mainly to buy some time for myself). It's the Leapfrog Pad - will be collecting it on Saturday. Lets just hope she'll find immense joy in that. *fingers crossed*

I'm H-A-P-P-Y!!!

2006-07-07T16:33:00.000+08:00

I'm H-A-P-P-Y,
I'm H-A-P-P-Y,
I know I am,
I'm sure I am,
I'm H-A-P-P-Y!!!